(Japan) Call 0120-086-230 toll free (Japan Only)

(Italy) Call 800 822 005

property overview

Guests can admire surrounding views as they gaze upon the verdant mountains in the distance.

Nestled in fourteen acres between Margalla Hills and Rawal Lake, the Islamabad Serena Hotel is a symbol of East-meets-West Hospitality in Pakistan’s capital. Extolling the trademarks of Islamic architecture, the property is laced with terraces and pavilions, while inside, sumptuous dark-wood furniture and an abundance of pink-and-red furnishings recall the traditions of the northern valley of Swat. From the rooftop swimming pool guests can admire surrounding views, as they gaze upon the verdant mountains in the distance. The country’s leading business hotel, the region is abound with historic sites and day trips, and will satisfy both ambitious culture seekers and adventurer travelers. For those seeking relaxation, guests can visit the 35,000 square-foot-Maisha Spa & Health Club, a complex that is unrivalled in Pakistan.

We Recommend

Best Restaurant Classic

1969

This bright eatery pays tribute to Pakistan’s swinging 1960s, serving some of the best traditional Pakistani, Mediterranean, Continental and seafood dishes in the city. (92-51) 260-7263.

Best Restaurant for a Celebration

Barolo Restaurant

This fine-dining Italian restaurant brings a slice of Venice to the city, with tasteful indoor seating, a glass-walled pizzeria, a cigar lounge, and an outdoor mini-canal with stationary gondolas. (92-51) 822-5791.

Best View

Daman-e-Koh

A winding road through the green Margalla Hills takes visitors to this protected vantage point surrounded by terraced gardens, with views of Islamabad and beyond.

Top Architecture Find

Dhamarajika, Taxila

The town of Taxila is a complex of ruins from different eras of habitation, some dating back to the Neolothic era. The area includes important Buddhist sites as well other religious structures. whc.unesco.org/en/list/139.

Top Day Trip

Hill Towns

A visit to the hill stations of Murree and Galliat, knows as the Queen of Hills, is a relaxing country getaway. Nearby, the evocatively named Natiyagalli, Ayubia and Patriat areas are also worth a visit.

Best Family Activity

Lake View Park

Spend an afternoon ambling from the gazebos to the botanical gardens to the boating jetty on Rawal Lake. Amp up the fun with quad biking and a spin on the skating rink.

Best City Secret

The Monal restaurant

The restaurant at this resort, nestled high in the Margalla Hills, offers panoramic views of the whole city and an array of tantalizing local dishes (as well as international ones). (92-51) 583-7219; www.themonal.com.

Best Newcomer

The Polo Lounge Islamabad

Situated in Saidpur Village, a traditional potters’ hamlet, the Polo Lounge outdoor restaurant serves modern dishes drawing from French techniques and world cuisines. 92-423-630-5268; www.thepololounge.com.pk.